NGT Cracks Down on Illegal Borewells in Delhi’s Paharganj Hotels

Introduction

Illegal groundwater extraction has become a pressing environmental concern in Delhi, particularly in the Paharganj area, where hotels and guesthouses have been found operating unauthorized borewells. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken a firm stance on this issue, directing authorities to seal such borewells and ensure compliance with environmental laws. This article delves into the ongoing enforcement drive and the broader implications for groundwater regulation in the national capital.

The Issue at Hand

The NGT has sought accountability from authorities, including the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), Delhi Jal Board (DJB), and the district magistrate of central Delhi, concerning illegal borewells in 536 hotels and guesthouses. These establishments are accused of extracting groundwater without requisite permissions, thereby exacerbating Delhi’s water crisis.

Last month, the NGT flagged a potential irregularity related to a purported Voluntary Disclosure Scheme (VDS) under which these establishments claimed exemptions for their borewells. However, the tribunal observed that no official record of such a scheme exists, raising suspicions of procedural misconduct.

Enforcement Actions

A multi-agency team comprising officials from the revenue department, Delhi Police, DPCC, DJB, and BSES has been tasked with sealing illegal borewells. According to a status report:

1. On November 12, the team inspected 10 hotels:
   • One hotel’s borewell was sealed.
   • Eight hotels had paid environmental damage charges and committed to compliance.
2. The DJB identified 78 hotels/guesthouses in Paharganj that remain non-compliant with NGT directions.

The sealing drive is ongoing, and authorities have assured the tribunal that all violating borewells will be sealed.

Environmental and Legal Implications

1. Groundwater Depletion:
   Delhi’s groundwater levels have been declining at an alarming rate, exacerbated by unauthorized borewells. The extraction by hotels and guesthouses without proper oversight not only depletes this vital resource but also undermines efforts to regulate its usage.
2. Voluntary Disclosure Scheme (VDS) Controversy:
   The tribunal’s observation regarding the alleged VDS scheme has revealed administrative lapses. The absence of documentation and clarity on the scheme’s origin indicates potential negligence or malpractice within regulatory bodies.
3. Accountability and Compliance:
   The NGT’s intervention underscores the importance of robust enforcement of environmental laws. The sealing of borewells serves as a warning to other establishments engaging in similar illegal practices.
4. Legal Framework:
   The case highlights the need for stricter monitoring under the Environment Protection Act, 1986, and the Groundwater (Sustainable Management) Bill, which is yet to be enacted.

Judicial Oversight and Recommendations

The NGT has directed the chief secretary of Delhi to conduct an inquiry into the alleged scam related to the VDS scheme. It has also sought detailed compliance reports regarding:

• The sealing of illegal borewells.
• Recovery of environmental damage charges.
• Enforcement of requisite permissions for groundwater extraction.

Additionally, the tribunal emphasized that systemic reforms are necessary to prevent such lapses in the future.

Conclusion

The sealing drive in Paharganj marks a significant step toward curbing illegal groundwater extraction in Delhi. However, the issue also highlights systemic inefficiencies in regulatory frameworks and the urgent need for stricter enforcement mechanisms. As the NGT continues to monitor the situation, this case serves as a critical reminder of the importance of preserving groundwater resources in an increasingly water-stressed city.

Keywords:

National Green Tribunal, illegal borewells, Delhi Pollution Control Committee, groundwater extraction, environmental damage charges, Paharganj hotels, Voluntary Disclosure Scheme, Delhi Jal Board, water conservation, sealing drive.

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